WELCOME TO STEPHENSON ADVENTURES
Pulsating cities. Vast wilderness. Fascinating history and colourful cultures. From the towering cliffs of the Table Mountain to the gritty streets of Soweto, excitement lies around every corner in vibrant South Africa.
Whether you’re looking to rub shoulders with locals on a tour of Johannesburg, explore further afield with a tour of Cape Town or Kruger National Park, or you’re simply in need of a transfer from the airport to your hotel, who better to provide personalised service than your own personal tour guide?
Stephenson Adventures offers a range of transfer and touring services that will immerse you in the best South Africa has to offer.
Soaring mountains, sunny beaches, and expansive savannahs. Cosmopolitan cities, vibing nightlife, and quiet towns. World-famous wines, up-market restaurants, and "lekker braais". The Big Five, "Little Five" and seemingly countless bird species.
South Africa is a cultural and ecological melting pot, offering visitors the best of African life in one, easily accessible and tourist-friendly destination.
Each province offers its own unique flavour of the country’s rich heritage and diversity, delivering whatever once-in-a-lifetime adventure you may be searching for.
The smallest and most densely populated of South Africa’s provinces, Gauteng is home to both the economic capital of Johannesburg and administrative capital of Pretoria.
As the saying goes, "dynamite comes in small packages", and Gauteng delivers a range of amazing sights and experiences despite its size.
Opened in 2001, The Apartheid Museum follows the journey of South Africa’s system of segregation and racial persecution from its inception to its dismantlement. Exploring the effects of the system on 20th century South Africa, it demonstrates how the country overcame the system to become a democracy with a bright future.
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, the Cradle of Humankind is one of the most rewarding archaeological dig sites in the world, with a high number of Hominid fossils discovered in the area. Consisting of the limestone Sterkfontein Caves and the Maropeng Visitors Centre, visitors can explore the origins of modern humans.
Located on the site of an old gold mine. With water rides, roller coasters, a casino, a mining museum and great shopping, the Golf Reef City amusement park offers a great day out for young and old alike.
Declared a National Heritage Site, this hilltop granite building designed by architect Gerard Moerdijk commemorates the Voortrekkers – explorers who left the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854. Carved murals on the inside walls recounts their stories of exploration.
The former residence of South African president Nelson Mandela is now a museum containing artifacts from South Africa’s famous Struggle icon.
Soweto’s most famous street with vibing restaurants, Vilakazi Street is the site of the former residences of both Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Occupying the highest point in Pretoria, the imposing Union Buildings house the official seat of the South African Government. Designed by renowned architect Sir Herbert Baker, the buildings are an iconic landmark and emblem of South Africa’s democracy.
Situated just 2 blocks away from where Hector Pieterson was shot and killed on 16 June 1976, the museum, and memorial documents the events of the anti-Apartheid Soweto Uprising. Containing films, photographs and newspapers from the period, the museum honours the 170 school children who lost their lives.
Located in Johannesburg’s inner-city, the site is now the seat of the Constitutional Court of South Africa. In addition to the functioning court, visitors can explore the former women’s prison which is now a museum.
One of the first houses in Pretoria to have electricity, Kruger House was the resident of the Boer Leader and former South African President, Paul Kruger. Now a museum that replicates the ambience of the late 1800’s, it contains original furnishings in addition to artefacts from the period.
Squeezed between the province of Gauteng and the Botswana border lies a stretch of countryside made up of rolling mountains and expansive bushveld plains. Between a host of UNESCO World Heritage sites, exciting activities, and great wildlife viewing, you’ll never be at a loss for something to see and do in North West province.
Just 2 hours outside of Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is defined by its unique geological formations, made up of ridges and valleys forming concentric circles - the crater of a long-extinct volcano. Various sites dating back to the Iron and Stone Ages complement the diverse fauna (including the Big Five), flora and birdlife that can be found in the park.
Developed by Sol Kerzner and positioned adjacent to the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City offers visitors an array of dining, entertainment, and accommodation. The renowned Palace of the Lost City delivers 5-star luxury, while the Valley of the Waves offers waterslides and a wave pool to cool off in. Guests can chance their luck at the casino or simply enjoy a round of golf on the Gary Player designed course.
The 5th largest game reserve in South Africa, Madikwe borders Botswana and offers a unique wildlife experience. The landscape consists of rolling grassland, forest thickets, and the rocky Tswene Tswene hills. A host of luxurious private camps inside the park provide 4- and 5-star accommodation, and game drives deliver a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five and 350 species of birds.
Contributing to the conservation of the sleek and beautiful Cheetah, the De Wildt Cheetah Research Centre (now known as the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre) is renowned for its captive breeding program (the aim of which is to release the animals back into the wild). The centre provides 2 hour guided tours of the wildlife centre, during which visitors will see not only Cheetah, but a variety of other rare and endangered animals, including African Wild Dogs and Vultures.
Get a taste of traditional South African culture by visiting the residents of Lesedi Cultural Village. Guided tours of Zulu, Basotho, Xhosa, and Pedi homesteads provide visitors with insights into South Africa’s many different cultures. After the tour, a buffet is served at the Nyama Choma restaurant.
So-called because of the great number of fossils, tools and other remnants of early humanoids, the Cradle of Humankind is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassing a large area of the North West province, guests can learn more about the evolution of mankind at the award-winning Maropeng Visitor Centre and explore the caves at Sterkfontein.
Discovered in 1924 and estimated to be 2.5 million years old, it is suspected that the Taung Skull belonged to a small child that was killed by a giant, prehistoric bird of prey. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can view the monument that was erected to mark the significance of this find, check out the Buxton Quarry, and enjoy the tranquil scenery of the area.
Interact with the largest land animal in the world at the Elephant Sanctuary. Guided by expert elephant handlers, guests walk “trunk-in-hand” through the sanctuary before bonding with the animals by feeding them.
Float gently above the stunning scenery of North West province in a Hot Air Balloon. Enjoy a complete African experience including breath-taking sunset, wildlife-viewing and delicious food.
Zip between the cliff faces of one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. Experienced guides accompany your tour and provide insights into the small and lesser seen wonders of the Magaliesberg as you make your way down the valley.
Imagine rolling bushveld, plunging cliffs, and amazing outdoor adventure and you’ll have an idea of what Mpumalanga is all about. Formerly known as the Eastern Transvaal, Mpumalanga stretches from Gauteng province towards the border of Mozambique and encompasses beautiful scenery and much of Africa’s famous wildlife including the Big Five. Throw in a few quaint villages, excellent hike-and-bike trails, caves and fly-fishing and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable African vacation!
The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest and most famous wildlife reserve. Offering a range of day trips, self-drive holidays, and a variety of accommodation options from budget to 5-star luxury, it provides visitors with a fully immersive bushveld experience.
When not in search of the Big Five, myriad other wildlife, amazing birdlife and diverse plant life, visitors can experience walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, or visit a cultural village located within the park.
A scenic road that links areas of natural beauty and quaint villages, the Panorama Route is a must-do activity when touring Mpumalanga.
From the largest green canyon in the world, the Blyde River Canyon to the historical gold mining town of Pilgrim’s Rest, visitors are treated to magical sites including The Pinnacle, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, God’s Window, and the Natural Bridge carved into a gorge by the Mac Mac River. The area is a waterfall-lovers dream, with the most spectacular being the Lisbon, Horseshoe, Berlin, and Mac Mac Falls.
Regarded as some of the oldest caves in the world, the highlight of the underground tour is the PR Owen Hall, also known as the “Amphitheatre” – so large it has hosted musical concerts! For the adventurous at heart, the “Crystal Tour” takes you 2000m below ground level to the Crystal Chamber, which features magnificent aragonite crystals.
The quaint town of Dullstroom is a fisherman’s dream. Dubbed the fly-fishing capital of South Africa, the town sports several other attractions including the largest whiskey collection and biggest clock collection in the southern hemisphere, spectacular birdwatching, and tours of nearby Bergen Cheese Farm.
Located in the province capital of Nelspruit, the Lowveld Botanical Gardens contains 8 unique sections which feature a range of plant life, including some rare and endangered species. Nearby Jane Goodall institute offers guided tours through the Chimpanzee rescue centre.
Bordering the mighty Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers up-market, 5-star luxury. Made up of a group of private game reserves, it’s the ultimate spot for discerning safari goers.
Craggy cliffs and expansive savannahs, adventure and culture, game viewing and friendly smiles - Limpopo province is a kaleidoscope of sounds, colour and heritage all waiting to be discovered!
The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest and most famous wildlife reserve. Offering a range of day trips, self-drive holidays, and a variety of accommodation options from budget to 5-star luxury, it provides visitors with a fully immersive bushveld experience.
When not in search of the Big Five, myriad other wildlife, amazing birdlife and diverse plant life, visitors can experience walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, or visit a cultural village located within the park.
Forming part of the extended “Cradle of Humankind”, Makapansgat Valley is an important palaeontological site, with extensive cave systems holding rich deposits flora, fauna and hominid fossils dating back up to 4 million years ago.
Named after the fabled rain queen, the Modjadji Cycad Reserve is some to some of the oldest, largest Cycads in the world. Visitors can enjoy a network of paths which crisscross through the Cycad forests. Views of the Lowveld are breath-taking, and several plains game and over 170 bird species can be spotted in the park.
The Rhino Museum follows the rhino’s evolution, habitat, conservation, and challenges contributing to the endangered status of this once common African animal.
Hidden away in the northernmost section of the mighty Drakensberg mountain range, the Echo Caves are considered some of the oldest in the world. Formed when Africa was still part of Gondwana, this geological site dates back an estimated 3,800 million years ago. Traverse 2km of underground tunnels and chambers on a guided tour of this Historical Monument.
A stone’s throw from the city of Polokwane, the Game Reserve offers several short hiking trails which visitors can use to traverse the park on foot to enjoy sightings of white rhino and 20 other species of game.
A rich diversity of flora and the birding “Big Six” (Pel’s fishing owl, martial eagle, lappet-faced vulture, ground hornbill, kori bustard and saddle-billed stork) offer an utterly superb safari experience. Guided safari walks, a heritage walk to the top of Mapungubwe Hill, rock art sites, and the interpretive centre & museum at the entrance all provide unique flavour to this beautiful National Park.
Bask in the magnificence of the ancient “upside down trees”. Scattered throughout Limpopo province, these huge trees are an integral part of the ecosystem, providing a home to birds and insects, and food for elephants, baboons, and several antelope species. Muri Kunguluwa is the oldest baobab in Africa, estimated to be between 1,200 and 1,700 years old. It is also the largest, standing over 20m high, with a trunk circumference of 43m.
A largely unspoiled wilderness area, the Waterberg Biosphere has been recognised by UNESCO for its rich and unique biodiversity. Consisting of 7 Game Reserves and National Parks, along with large tracts of land from privately owned game farms, this area is a must for those seeking the best of Africa’s exciting wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery.
This large private game reserve stretches across a portion of the beautify Waterberg Biosphere. Home to over 50 animal species including the Big Five, the reserve is also a bird-watchers paradise with over 300 species. With no private vehicles allowed in the park, visitors are guaranteed an unspoiled and intimate safari experience.
Tswana for “place of sanctuary”, Marakele National Park has a rich biodiversity of wildlife. Situated in the zone where the dry west and moister east of South Africa meet, the deep valleys and soaring mountains of Marakele contain not only sought after large game such as elephants and big cats, but rare plant species and the world’s largest colony of the endangered Cape Vulture.
With long stretches of golden beach and temperate climate, it’s no wonder that KwaZulu Natal is South Africa’s favourite holiday hotspot. But there is more to the province than first meets the eye. Historical battlefields, soaring mountain peaks, quaint villages, and fantastic game viewing provide options for those who want to get away from the beach.
Known for its Indian, African, and colonial influences, Durban is a mishmash of architecture and culture. The seafront promenade, known as the Golden Mile, follows the route from the Moses Mabida Stadium (refurbished for the 2010 Soccer World Cup) to uShaka Marine World (an aquarium and theme park). Visitors can enjoy harbour cruises, or journey further inland to explore Warwick Junction street market, the Port Natal Maritime Museum, and the Campbell Collections.
A theme park in the heart of Durban, uShaka Marine World is divided into 8 sections, each with its own unique offering. Comprising of the world’s 5th largest aquarium, a water park sporting Africa’s highest slide (an 18m drop), a reptile centre, a “rope adventure park” with the longest continuous belay system in Africa and a variety of shops and restaurants, the park offers something for everyone.
The name given to the eastern part of South Africa’s Great Escarpment, the Drakensberg forms part of the border with mountainous Lesotho. With peaks reaching elevations of up to 3,482m, the area is a mecca for those in search of outdoor adventure. Hiking, day trails, mountain biking, wine tasting, river rafting, golf, quad- and off-road biking, hot air ballooning… The list of activities available to visitors is seemingly endless!
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its natural and culture significance, the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park covers an area of 243,000 hectares of pristine mountain splendour. In addition to the dramatic scenery, which incorporates soaring peaks and plunging valleys, the area is the inspiration behind J.R.R. Tolkien’s Misty Mountains. The highlight of the park is undoubtedly the 35,000-odd San Rock Art paintings, described by some as “the world’s greatest outdoor gallery”.
A short drive from Port Shepstone (120km from Durban), Oribi Gorge is a deep canyon that was formed by the Mzimkulu River. Deriving its name from the tiny oribi antelope that can be found in the area, the gorge is anything but, with sheer cliffs plunging 400m to the valley below, and 5km across at its widest point. Encompassing scenery from forests, ravines and a majestic waterfall, visitors can partake in adrenaline pumping activities such as abseiling and river rafting or opt to simply enjoy the scenery from one of the many picnic spots.
A scenic area made up of 80km of intertwined sightseeing routes. Starting just an hour’s drive from Durban, the Midlands Meander provides a relaxing day out, with many points of interest from fine dining and art galleries to adventure activities.
Known as the “City of Flowers”, Pietermaritzburg’s National Botanical Gardens displays a range of endangered indigenous plants, along with a selection of northern hemisphere specimens. The lush vegetation has made the Gardens a great place for birdwatchers, attracting over 10 recorded species of bird.
Also called the Kingdom of Zululand and the Zulu Empire, Zululand an historical area that encompasses what was once the monarchy Shaka Zulu. Now largely made up of wildlife reserves, it is home to “The Black Rhino Range Expansion Project” – a WWF initiative aimed at reintroducing the endangered Black Rhino to the area.
With history dating back to over a century ago, the Battlefields Route links over 82 battlefields, museums, fortifications, and monuments. It is the largest concentration of war-related sites in South Africa.
North of Durban, the Dolphin coast offers a “small village holiday vibe”, with several seaside resort towns. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean break that on golden sandy beaches are the biggest attraction of the area, along with the variety of shops and restaurants along the entire stretch of coast. Dolphins can often be spotted from the shore, giving the area its name.
The northern stretch of KwaZulu Natal’s coastline, the Elephant Coast encompasses the largely wild area between St Lucia and Kosi Bay.
A small, quaint town on the southern end of the Elephant Coast, St Lucia is the gateway to the iSimamgaliso Wetland Park.
Lake St Lucia estuary is the highlight of iSimamgaliso Wetland Park - a large protected area along the north coast. The third largest protected area in South Africa, the park incorporates well known diving and wildlife hotspots, such as Kosi Bay, False Bay, and Sodwana Bay.
Claimed to be Africa’s oldest Game Reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is home to a variety of topographies, the famous “Big Five” and a diverse array of other wildlife.
Within the vast, flat expanses of the Free State are hidden amazing historical sites, exciting outdoor activities, bustling cities, and quaint villages, along with some of South Africa’s amazing cultural and historical hotspots.
A short drive from the quaint village of Clarens in the northern-eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Incorporating the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains, the park provides a range of natural and cultural attractions. Discover beautiful scenery on a hike or mountain bike trail or learn about local culture at the Basotho Cultural Village.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vredefort Dome is the site of the Earth’s largest meteorite impact. Estimated to have happened 2,023 million years ago, the crater is a unique geological phenomenon, providing a clear example of the magnitude of so-called “ring structures” that resulted from the meteorite’s impact.
Spend a day in the company of the friendly locals at the Basotho Cultural Village. Learn about their ancient way of life, traditions, and customs. The tour provides a great opportunity to taste local delicacies and enjoy traditional dance and music.
Located on the northern shore of the Gariep Dam, the reserve is the largest to be found in the Free State. Home to the largest population of Springbok in South Africa, visitors will also find several other plains game species, including klipspringer, black wildebeest, red hartebeest, ostrich, and Cape mountain zebra.
A few minutes outside of Harrismith, the plunging cliffs of Sterkfontein Dam Reserve disappear into expansive stretches of savannah grassland. With limited wildlife in the park, the area offers safe hiking and mountain bike trails, with a variety of water sports are available on the dam. The area is a bird lovers paradise with over 200 species recorded.
Situated in the heart of provincial capital of Bloemfontein, Franklin Nature Reserve is one of only two “city wildlife reserves” in the world. A variety of wildlife, including giraffe, zebra, and eland can be spotted, and bird watchers will delight in the species that call the park home. A drive to the top of Naval Hill will reward visitors with spectacular vistas, along with the curious “White Horse” sculpture which dates back to the Anglo-Boer War.
Home to 3 of Africa’s famous Big Five, Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is also home to the world’s largest herd of Black Wildebeest. A well-preserved ruin of a pre-historic settlement can be found in the leafy northern portion of the park and is well worth a visit.
Tucked along the southern border of the Free State, as the name of the reserve hints, Tussen die Riviere Game Reserve is situated between two large rivers – namely the Caledon and Orange. It provides a great example of Karoo scenery, populated with large herds of easily seen antelope. The park contains 3 short hiking trails and 120km of well-maintained dirt road to explore.
Declared a “National Cultural Institution”, the National Museum in Bloemfontein is home to a diverse array of exhibitions, encompassing natural history, art, and cultural history. First opening in 1878, the historic building holds an exceptional collection of fossils and archaeological artefacts from around the world.
A slowly meandering path takes visitors past over 400 species of plant, most of which can be found in the Free State, Northern Cape, and Lesotho. Located in a valley, the gardens cover an area of 70 hectares of natural vegetation.
Boasting an area larger than the entire country of Germany, the Northern Cape is the simultaneously the largest, least populated province in South Africa. The mighty Orange River flows through the semi-arid regions of Namaqualand and the Kalahari Desert, providing a lifeline for the fauna and flora that call this vast arid landscape home.
Located in the vast arid Kalahari Desert, stretching across South Africa, Botswana and towards Namibia, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park’s stark landscape encompasses dry riverbeds, large red sand dunes and silhouettes of camel thorn trees. Huge, black-maned Kalahari lions rule the desert, with a host of other predators, plains game and birdlife offering an amazing safari experience.
Every year, from August and September, the dry desert landscape is transformed into an explosion of colour, as 3,000 plant species spring to life after the first rains of the season. The 800km route starts in Cape Town, transporting you through mountain-framed desert landscapes, past small towns and villages of Garies, Springbok, Citrusdal and Clanwilliam before ending in Port Nolloth. Namaqua National Park, Goegap Nature Reserve, and Spitskop Nature Reserve are protected areas within the region that are must-sees for those looking for vast expanses of the famous brightly colours flora. Outside of flowering season, the reserves offer the stark beauty of the semi-arid region.
The harsh temperatures in South Africa’s north west has given rise to a breath-takingly beautiful mountainous desert. Owned and managed by the semi-nomadic Nama (descendants of the Khoi-Khoi), the landscape contains many endangered Karoo flora.
Named after the mighty waterfall, which is the highlight of the park, Augrabies is characterised by rocky cliff faces which plunge 60m to the Orange River Gorge below. The landscape of the 28,000-hectare park is dotted with craggy outcrops, quiver trees and a breath-taking diversity of fauna and flora.
Kimberly’s famous “Big Hole” is unique as it’s known to be the only hand-dug excavation of this scale in the world. What started out as a flat-topped hill in 1871, is now a sheer-faced hole that plunges 215m deep. During its short life as a mine (only 43 years), it produced 2722 kilograms of diamonds.
Lying adjacent to the Big Hole, the open-air Kimberly Mine Museum is hailed as one of the best in the world. Recognisable names such as De Beers and Barney Barnato make an appearance in the town which features a church, shops and houses that recreate an authentic Victorian atmosphere.
In a landscape that could not be more different than its world renowned cousin in the Western Cape, the vineyards of the Northern Cape have been able to use the unforgiving conditions to their advantage, creating unique flavours from refreshing and crisp to full-bodied varieties. A handful of wine farms in the area provide a hidden gem for die-hard wine lovers.
Starting its life as a private farm, the owner used a style of farming that allowed the optimal balance between crops and nature. Discovered by the BBC and Sir David Attenborough in the late 1990’s, the farm was recognised as an important botanical treasure. Now one of South Africa’s 10 National Botanical Gardens, it boasts several walks across its 6,000-hectare area.
While not a province in its own right, the short stretch of coastline that reaches the 300km between Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay is worth a mention due to its beauty. Its combinations of forest, mountain, beach, and wetland have made the area a popular vacation spot for local and international visitors alike.
A variety of whales can be spotted along this stretch of coast all year around. Humpbacks, southern right, orca, Bryde’s and dolphin make regular appearances at Mossel Bay, Knysna, Noetzie Beach and Plettenberg Bay. A variety of land-based and water-top viewpoints provide the ideal whale-watching spots along the entire length of coast.
The biodiversity of this coastal region is so important that a new protected area encompassing a whopping 121,000 hectares was formed. The Garden Route National Park includes the existing Wilderness and Tsitsikamma National Park, the Knysna Lakes area, and a huge swath of additional land. It contains the country’s largest continuous forest complex and a section of the Cape Floristic region.
Playing an important role in the conservation of the area’s flora, the Garden Route Botanical Garden contains a mountainous border on one end, and 2 wetland areas on the other. Several short walks take visitors to key areas within the gardens, providing many delightful photo stops among the abundant plant and birdlife.
Traversing the 1.2km of wooden walkway though the huge 2-hectare single-span aviary brings you up-close and personal with over 100 species of amazing birdlife. Made up of over 2,000 previously caged birds, the feathered population completely immerses visitors under the rainforest dome, transporting them to a place truly deserving of the name “Eden”.
The quaint town of Knysna is an ideal stop along the Garden Route. The Waterfront area boasts beautiful views, great dining options, and fantastic shopping in a handful of unique retail stores.
Experience the unspoiled splendour of the privately owned Featherbed Nature Reserve on a formal tour. Starting at the Knysna Waterfront, a ferry whisks guests across the lagoon to a waiting vehicle, which transports you to the top of the landmark outcrop known as “The Heads” from where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the lagoon, town of Knysna and surrounding seascape.
Jutting out into the ocean, the rocky peninsula of Robberg Nature Reserve is the most popular hiking spot in the Plettenberg Bay area. Dating back to 130 million years ago, the site is an important archaeological site, evidence of which can be seen in Nelson Bay Cave. Birdlife, windswept fynbos, and South Africa’s smallest antelope, the Blue Duiker, can often be seen dotting the landscape.
A wonderfully calming day awaits visitors at the Keurbooms River Nature Reserve. A diverse array of birdlife can be seen in the canopy of the indigenous trees that line the river. Slightly outside of the park, but still easily accessible, the Keurboom River estuary is one of the best examples of a tidal river mouth along this section of coastline.
The climate along the Garden Route provide the perfect conditions for a selection of vineyards that produce a variety of red, rose, and white vintages. With estates found from George, to the Langeberg Mountains, visitors are able to enjoy some of South Africa’s great wines while enjoying the beautiful views and atmosphere of this spectacular stretch of coastline.
The warm African sun of the Eastern Cape is rivalled only by the warmth of its diverse and unique people. A playground for those looking for adventure, amazing outdoor activities are complemented by beautiful landscapes, natural wonders and national cultural treasures.
Situated in the malaria free Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is the third largest wildlife preserve in South Africa. Reaching from the arid Karoo to the mouth of the Bushman’s River, the park is home to over 450 elephants, along with a huge biodiversity of landscapes, fauna, and flora.
A short drive from Port Elizabeth, Algoa Bay is the ultimate spot to partake in bit of whale watching. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen from the shore all year around, while the period between August and December are prime whale-spotting months, bringing Humpbacks, Orcas, Southern Right, Bryde’s and Minke Whales past the coast.
A memorable cultural experience, the Nelson Mandela Museum honours heroes from the liberation struggle. The main museum is housed in Mthatha, and features exhibitions designed to be a “living memorial to his values and vision”.
A secondary museum, the Nelson Mandela Youth and Heritage Centre, is in Qunu a stone’s throw from Nelson Mandela’s home. It forms part of the overall story told by the main museum in Mthatha.
The Wild Coast’s “Hole in the Wall” is hailed as one of South Africa’s most impressive coastal features. Located in Coffee Bay, the large arch has been carved by the relentless crashing waves.
Voted the World’s Leading Safari and Game Reserve and Conservation Company for several consecutive years, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a Big Five reserve offering luxury accommodation and premier safari experiences.
There are many great beaches along the Eastern Cape coastline. Less commercial than the Kwa-Zulu Natal coast, there are many wild and pristine spots to enjoy the beauty of the area. Jeffery’s Bay is a well-known surfing hotspot, while a host of other sandy spots, such as Gonubie, Natures Valley, Coffee Bay, and Kelly’s Beach are great spots to stop and feel the sand between your toes.
Known for its unique landscape and wildlife, Amakhala Private Game Reserve offers a variety of accommodation for safari goers, from budget-friendly 3-star to luxury 5-star. Less crowded than South Africa’s “famous” parks, visitors can enjoy semi-exclusive game viewing with highly experienced nature guides.
An abundance of wildlife awaits at Mountain Zebra National Park. Established in 1937 to protect the habitat of the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra, the park is home to several often-overlooked South African wildlife species. Ground Squirrels, Gemsbok and Red Hartebeest are just some of the animals that can be found. Intrepid explorers also have the opportunity to track cheetah on foot.
The plunging cliffs and dolerite columns of Desolation Valley end in the unending flatness of the Karoo in Camedoo National Park. A selection of walking trails, 4x4 trails, watersports, and picnic sites provide visitors to the park with a range of activities to enjoy. The small town of Graaf-Reinet, the gateway to the park, is also well worth exploring.
Nestled in the Camedoo National Park, the Valley of Desolation is designated as a national monument of geological and scenic significance. A towering cliff face and nearby dolerite columns frame the landscape of the Groot Karoo are a geological phenomenon well worth a visit.
One of the most visited provinces, the Western Cape is probably most well-known for the beautiful city of Cape Town and its attractions, including Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the buzzing V&A Waterfront. Beyond Cape Town, the province rewards visitors with spectacular scenery, excellent wine farms and historical towns, such as Paarl, Franschhoek, and Stellenbosch.
One of the most recognisable landmarks of South Africa, if not the world, Table Mountain forms the imposing backdrop to the beautiful city of Cape Town. Situated in Table Mountain National Park, there are forests to picnic in, penguin-filled beaches to marvel at, hikes to enjoy, and the famous Flying Dutchman lighthouse to climb. Of course, the most popular activity is taking a trip to the top on the Aerial Cableway, where visitors are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Created to protect the natural beauty of Cape Town (the rare fynbos vegetation, in particular), Table Mountain National Park contains several points of interest. In addition to Table Mountain itself, sites include Cape Point - reported to be the windiest place in South Africa, and the Cape of Good Hope – a dramatic rocky outcrop with spectacular views.
Situated in Table Bay, off the Bloubergstrand coast, Robben Island has been used as a military base, hospital and, most famously, a prison since the 17th century. Now a designated World Heritage Site, visitors can take a tour of the island, covering the village, World War 2 bunkers and the museum which chronicles the lives of political prisoners under the apartheid system. On the tour, you’ll get to stand in the cell of Robben Island’s most famous prisoner – Nelson Mandela.
Listed as one of the “great botanical gardens of the world”, Kirstenbosch can be found at the eastern foot of Table Mountain. With over 2,500 species of plants to be found in the gardens, this magnificent setting displays the beauty and diversity of the Cape’s flora in all its glory.
One of South Africa’s most visited attractions, and containing no fewer than 22 landmarks, the V&A Waterfront is not only a working harbour, but a smorgasbord of restaurants, retail shops, museums, and the Two Oceans Aquarium.
The oldest city in South Africa, Cape Town contains amazing historical sites. Outside of easily recognisable sites, such as Cape Castle and the colourful suburb of Bo-Kaap, are a myriad of significant buildings. From Cape Dutch to Victorian and Cape Revival, lovers of architecture are in for an eye-boggling treat!
With the great expanses of the Atlantic Ocean in front of you, and dramatic cliffs behind you, Cape Town’s beaches are some of the most scenic in the world. From the upmarket restaurants along Camps Bay and the surfing hotspots of Muizenberg to the “city beaches” of Sea Point and Tableview, there are a range of amazing sandy stretches to suit the type of experience you’re after. Beware though – the water is icy!
With a history dating back to 1682, Cape Town’s wine farms are a must for those who enjoy beautiful views, scenic drives and, of course, world renowned wine! From old-school farmhouses to chic and modern tasting venues, the range of vineyards ensure that every taste is catered for.
Found outside of Beaufort West, the Karoo National Park is home to a large swathe of semi-arid Karoo landscape. Game viewing includes a variety of large mammals, including 3 of the Big Five. Intrepid explorers can enjoy several bike trails, guided and un-guided walks and 4x4 trails through the park.
For those who love the splendour of nature’s amazing colours, the Cape Floral Region delivers some spectacular sites. Comprised of 13 protected areas in the Western and Eastern Cape, this collection of coastal regions is the smallest of six recognised floral kingdoms of the world and is reported to hold around one-fifth of all of Africa’s vegetation.
There are several whale-watching hotspots along the Western Cape’s coastline. Most seen are the Southern Right Whales, which can be spotted annually between June and November. Visitors between May and November might get to see the giant Humpback Whales too. Bryde’s whales can be found in South Africa’s waters all year around but are notoriously difficult to spot.
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